The Many Benefits of Online Graduate Degrees

June 20, 2017June 21, 2017

Every day, one is reminded of the high costs of obtaining an education beyond the bachelor’s level. If that were not enough, many popular magazines such as U.S. News and World Report and Forbes have featured articles about the value of an advanced degree in today’s wobbly economy. But are there benefits in earning a graduate degree online? This article will discuss three of the benefits in advancing your education online.

Benefit #1: Lifetime Earnings

While the average high school graduate will earn $1.2 million in their lifetime, a college graduate will earn $2.1 million in lifetime earnings. The good news for those with master’s degrees is that they can earn up to $2.5 million throughout their employable years. Workers with doctorate degrees can even earn up to $3.4 million in lifetime earnings.

Benefit #2: Upward Mobility

If you were not born with a silver spoon in your mouth, earning a master’s or doctorate degree can be the key to a higher standard of living, more responsibility at your job, and a way to properly provide for your loved ones. If you are working full-time, technology allows you to get a graduate degree without sacrificing your job, family or personal time.

Benefit #3: Value to an Employer

Many types of employers such as the armed services, schools, public agencies and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) require their employers to have advanced certification. Even if your job does not require you to have an master’s or doctorate degree, getting an online diploma beyond the bachelor’s level can set you apart from the other candidates when you apply for a promotion. An advanced degree shows an employer that you have the skills and knowledge needed to take a leadership role in your company.

With the proliferation of online programs, it is easier than ever for working adults to earn a graduate degree. If cost is an issue, ask a potential school about financial aid. You can also see if your employer has a tuition reimbursement program. Even though many people are decrying the value of graduate degrees in our unstable economy, the benefits of an advanced degree are vast enough to be worth the time, cost and personal sacrifice.